Kilauea, HI

Travel Guide

Kilauea showing general coastal views
Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens which includes wildflowers
Kilauea which includes forests and a waterfall
Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens showing a statue or sculpture
Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens
Hawaii’s northernmost point is renowned for its dramatic coastline, abundant bird and sea life, and for being the “Guava Capital of the World.” 

Kīlauea is located on Kauaʻi’s northeastern shore and is set amid mountainous terrain and dense rain forests. Kīlauea shares its name with one of Hawaii’s most active volcanoes, which has been erupting steadily since 1983. 

Take in the dramatic view at Kīlauea Point, a former volcanic vent that marks the northernmost point of all of Hawaii’s main islands. Kīlauea Point was designated a National Wildlife Refuge in 1985. Sit for a while beneath the Kīlauea Point Lighthouse and watch for humpback whales and dolphins. Or, pack your binoculars and go in search of native birds like the red-footed booby and the Laysan albatross. Stop by the visitor center to learn more about the area’s rich history and wildlife.

Kīlauea’s perpetually warm, sunny weather is best appreciated on one of its beaches. Whether you’re an avid surfer or prefer to sunbathe, Kīlauea’s clean sandy shores are an ideal place to pass the afternoon. Secret Beach is dotted with lava rocks and affords a beautiful view of the lighthouse. Kalihiwai Beach and Rock Quarry Beach are two other popular oceanfront destinations. Take a diving or snorkeling lesson to see vividly colored coral gardens, schools of tropical fish and graceful sea turtles.

Head to the town center to enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. Boutiques, galleries and cafés make the compact downtown area a perfect place to spend an afternoon. Each week the street is closed off to make room for a farmer’s market, where you can sample fresh produce and regional delicacies. Kīlauea is nicknamed the “Guava Capital of the World” thanks to the large number of plantations growing the fruit. Make sure to sample freshly squeezed juice or a smoothie, which is something of a local specialty. 

No trip is complete without experiencing a luau, where you can enjoy local dishes and learn more about the musical and cultural traditions from the area. 

Kīlauea is less than an hour’s drive southwest of Lihue Airport. Public transportation is limited, so rent a car, motorbike or bicycle to get the most out of your visit.

THIS IS IT! DREAMY BEACH, STUNNING VIEWS, AMAZING LOCATION!

THIS IS IT! DREAMY BEACH, STUNNING VIEWS, AMAZING LOCATION!

Anahola
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Kilauea. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Moloaa Bay and Moloaa Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (39 reviews)
"Just an amazing property, we didn't want to leave. Great snorkeling, and the beach is very private. Definitely would go back."

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

THIS IS IT! DREAMY BEACH, STUNNING VIEWS, AMAZING LOCATION!
Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel

3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ¥26,556 per night from Sep 30 to Oct 1
¥26,556
¥36,650 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,363 reviews)
"Great hotel, right by the beach."

Reviewed on Sep 25, 2025

Kauai Shores Hotel
The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

4 out of 5
3610 Rice Street, Lihue, HI
The price is ¥49,429 per night from Oct 3 to Oct 4
¥49,429
¥66,243 total
Oct 3 - Oct 4
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Lihue. Enjoy a full-service spa, 4 restaurants, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,050 reviews)
"Gorgeous resort, LONG walks to our room, lots of extra fees, very pricey"

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
THIS IS IT! DREAMY BEACH, STUNNING VIEWS, AMAZING LOCATION!

THIS IS IT! DREAMY BEACH, STUNNING VIEWS, AMAZING LOCATION!

Anahola
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Kilauea. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Moloaa Bay and Moloaa Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (39 reviews)
"Just an amazing property, we didn't want to leave. Great snorkeling, and the beach is very private. Definitely would go back."

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

THIS IS IT! DREAMY BEACH, STUNNING VIEWS, AMAZING LOCATION!
Banyan Harbor Resort

Banyan Harbor Resort

3 out of 5
3411 Wilcox Rd, Lihue, HI
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Lihue. Enjoy a 24-hour business center, laundry facilities, and concierge services. Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,088 reviews)
"Amazing stay close to a lot of restaurants stores five minutes away from the beach. I love this place. The staff is super friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

Banyan Harbor Resort
Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER

Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER

3 out of 5
2253 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Koloa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Poipu Beach and Poipu Shopping Village ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (960 reviews)
"I loved the lush green lawns around the property and enyoyed the pool across the street. It was warm and humid it would of been nice to have a fan."

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2025

Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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